of Little Rock, AR
September 21, 1938 - July 31, 2011
Dr. Frank Lamar Setliff, University of Arkansas at Little Rock Professor Emeritus of Chemistry, passed away July 31, 2011 from complications arising from cancer. He was born September 21, 1938 in Lake Charles, Louisiana, the son of the late Frank and Anna Setliff. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; his son Lt. Col. Chris Setliff (Tawni) and granddaughters Ashlyn and Miranda of Fredricksburg, Virginia; his daughter Cathy Dawson (Stephen) and granddaughter Elizabeth and grandson Andrew of Little Rock; his brother-in-law Dr. James Carver (Doris) of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and brother-in-law Dr. Jimmie Valentine (Carrie) of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, and also by nieces, nephews, and many friends.
Dr. Setliff attended the public schools of Lake Charles, and graduated from Lake Charles High School in 1956, where he was part of the 1955 state championship basketball team. He earned a BS in Chemistry (cum laude) from McNeese State University in 1960, and MS (1962) and Ph.D. (1966) degrees in Chemistry from Tulane University. He married Carolyn Lela Carver August 4, 1962, and this week marked their 49th wedding anniversary.
A distinguished graduate from ROTC, he served six years in the US Army Reserves, including two years active duty as a Project Officer in the Chemical Corps Combat Developments Command at Fort McClelland, Alabama.
He joined UALR (then LRU) in August 1966 and retired from full-time teaching in May 2001 after 35 years of service, but continued as a part-time lecturer for eight additional years. He played an active part in helping UALR through the formative years of the 1970s as the institution established its unique identity as an urban institution. His teaching was in the area of organic chemistry, and he was privileged to have taught and inspired more than ten thousand students, many of whom later received advanced degrees in chemistry or health-related fields. Many local physicians and pharmacists would attest to the rigors of Professor Setliff's courses, but also claim that from him they learned the self-discipline required to succeed in medical or pharmacy school. He was honored with the Outstanding Teacher Award in the College of Sciences in 1990.
In his time at UALR, he conducted research in the area of organic chemistry and authored or co-authored 40 technical articles. Most of his undergraduate research students later pursued higher degrees in chemistry, medicine, and pharmacology. He was a member of the American Chemical Society, the Arkansas Academy of Sciences, and is listed in the Outstanding Educators of America and American Men and Women of Science.
Lamar was a member of Fellowship Bible Church, where he served as a choir member, usher, and community group leader. He was active in the Diamond State Chorus for many years and enjoyed singing in several barbershop quartets, as well as being an avid lifelong Razorbacks fan. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Lamar actively participated in the activities of his children and grandchildren, including sports, dance, and piano events. His creativity, love, and humor gave his children and grandchildren many happy memories. His Godly leadership as a husband and father provided a strong role model to his children and others whose lives he touched.
Visitation for the family will be at Roller-Chenal from 6:00 - 8:00 pm on August 4, and a memorial service will be held at Fellowship Bible Church at 10:00 am August 5. Interment will be at Arkansas State Veterans' Cemetery in North Little Rock.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Frank Lamar Setliff Memorial Fund, c/o Office of Development, UALR 2801 S. University, 72204.
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38 Condolence(s)
Greg Campbell
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Dr. Setliff was one of the greatest influences in my life. He was a terrific Organic Chemistry Professor. I worked endless hours in his lab making nicotinamide derivatives and then characterizing the new compounds. He encouraged me when my dad died before finishing my final year at UALR even though I felt like quiting. He was truely a great man.
Michael Cates
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Carolyn and family,
My deepest sympathy for your loss. Carolyn - you and Lamar were strong and faithful choir members in my early years at Fellowship Bible, and I respected both of you so much.
I can still hear Lamar's strong tenor adding strength to the section. Now he joins the eternal song in praise of the Savior he loved so dearly.
Prayers and blessings to you all,
Michael
Wendy Nelson
Sunday, August 14, 2011
I had the privilege of taking Dr. Setliff’s Organic Chemistry I class not once but twice. It wasn’t until the second time I truly appreciated his ability and dedication as an instructor. He cared about his students and their understanding of his coursework, difficult though it may have been, but also had very high expectations of us all. I was fortunate to have him as my instructor for a senior level lab class. He expected nothing but the best from us, his students, but was also willing to guide us when we needed. He wanted all of us to succeed.
I feel doubly blessed to have known Dr. Setliff outside of UALR. He and my father-in-law, Bernie Powell, sang in barbershop chorus together, and as Bernie met the end of his own battle with cancer, Dr. Setliff and his quartet visited his home and sang to him.
Dr. Setliff was a one-of-a-kind man. The work ethic he instilled in his students as well as his quirky sense of humor were his hallmarks. Heaven is a better place since his arrival, and I know he and Bernie together are making beautiful music.
Darrell and Christine Franklin
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Carolyn,
I'm praying for you at this difficult time! May God comfort and keep you. May His loving kindness fill your heart.
Love,
Christine
Keith and Kyle Moore
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Dear Carolyn: I never knew Lamar from the world of academia. From our conversations and what many people told me, he was a remarkable teacher. Kyle and I both enjoyed singing with Lamar in Diamond State Chorus. We will miss that. I will miss most his unique, dry sense of humor. Many times he would very casually whisper a cleaver barb about someone or something and never blink, leaving me to laugh out loud and usually get in trouble. Because of his faith in Jesus Christ, I know where Lamar is. I know we will see him again very soon. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Kay Hall
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Carolyn, Chris, Cathy and family,
My deepest condolences in the loss of your precious Lamar. I pray that the sure knowledge that he is healed, pain free and enjoying the beauties of heaven greatly comforts you.
My deepest sympathy and prayers,
Kay Hall
Perry (Dickie) Dickinson
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Reading Lamar's obituary really brought back memories of our Hi school days. Me, Lamar, Gordon
Browning, Larry Nugent, Barbara Breedlove, Earl Breaux and Darrell Ardoin were the original magnificent seven. We did everything together. My wife just died on July 16 after a 2 year illness so I know what you are going through My heart goes out to you and your family.
Cindy Petty
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Carolyn,
I am so sorry to hear about Lamar. I know from the way you talked about him at ASMTA conferences that you loved him very much and that he was very much in the center of your life. I know this is very hard for you, but I also know that our God is bigger than our problems and able to carry us through them. My prayer is that he will do just that.
Love to you and your family.
Cindy
Ann and Larry Coleman
Friday, August 5, 2011
Dear Carolyn,
Please know that you and the family have our deepest sympathy. We regret that we could not be there for the memorial service. We have such fond memories of Lamar and as I told him recently I still have his photo on my desk...the one of him singing to me one Valentine's along with the photo of Lawrence who sent the valentine. May your fond memories help you through this most difficult time.
Scott & Mary Snider
Friday, August 5, 2011
Carolyn and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. I so love the memory of signing by Lamar in choir over the years at Fellowship Bible, Little Rock. What a dedicated servant of God. Our prayers are with you all during this difficult time. God Bless,
Scott and Mary Snider
Scott & Mary Snider
Friday, August 5, 2011
Carolyn and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. I so love the memory of signing by Lamar in choir over the years at Fellowship Bible, Little Rock. What a dedicated servant of God. Our prayers are with you all during this difficult time. God Bless,
Scott and Mary Snider
Mary Alyce Orahood
Friday, August 5, 2011
Dear Carolyn,
Phil and I were so saddened to hear about Lamar. We remember all the good times we had during the transition years for UALR. May God bless and keep you during this time of sorrow.
Jeanne Rollins
Friday, August 5, 2011
Carolyn, Cathy and Chris,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Lamar was a dear man and friend. Hugs to you all. Jeanne and Gary Rollins
Sally Martens
Friday, August 5, 2011
Carolyn, my prayers are with you and your family at this time. So sorry for your great loss.
Sally Martens (Nancy Griffin's sister)
Jay Orson
Friday, August 5, 2011
Chris and Family,
I am sorry to hear about the passing of your father. Struggles with cancer are never easy. Celeberate Frank's life with friends and family. Be comforted in the knowledge of salvation through our Savior. Our heart and prayers are with you. Your Air Force family.
Deborah Auld
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Carolyn
Just wanted to say how sorry i was to hear about Lamar. He was truly a great person. You will be in my prayers.
Terry Rogers
Thursday, August 4, 2011
As a friend of Cathy - my sincere condolences to the entire family - especially all the children. I know they will miss their grandfather but will have the best memories of him. You are all in my prayers tonight and in the coming weeks. It doesn't look like I will be able to get by tonight and must work tomorrow - Friday. But will be in touch. Cathy - please call me whenever you have the chance. Bless you all.
Don Jordahl
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Carolyn & family. As you well know, Lamar was a true friend of mine. He never met a stranger, and excelled in everything he undertook. An award winning Doctor of Chemistry. A true leader in his Barbershop Chorus and a superb tenor there, and in, his very successful quartet. He will be missed but you will know that all who knew him are better for that association. God bless all of you. Love, Don
Debra Setliff
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Carolyn,
I am so sorry to hear about Lamar. The both of you have always been so nice to me. I know that now is a really dark time but remmeber he isn't suffering any more and is wit the Lord.
May God Bless you
Debbie Setliff
Sue Fess
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Oh Carolyn, I cannot believe how fragile life is. Mike and I will be in touch and are so saddened by Lamar's death. I send love and support to you and all of your sweet family.
With deep sympathy,
Sue Fess
Bill Roberts
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Carolyn,
I was saddened to hear about your loss. Lamar was a lifelong friend and even though we didn't interact as often as we would like, I still remember the great memories we made in school. He was a special gentleman.
Nan Renaud
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Carolyn,
I am so sorry for your loss. I am thinking of you and your family and sending love of the highest sourse.
Nan
Ann Thompson
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
My Dearest Caroline and Family.
I was so sadden to hear about Lamar. I know he is singing up a storm in heaven with his beautiful voice. Please accept our LOVE and PRAYERS in this time of sorrow. We love you dearly.
Ann , Charles, Michael adn Colby Thompson
Vicki Finch
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
I'm so sorry to hear this. Dr Setliff was one of my very favorite professors. He expected a lot of me as he did all his students, but was great to help me and I knew when I came to his office he would spend whatever time I needed to help me "get it". I loved my organic chem class with him, and he encouraged me to excel.
Leann Hatley
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
I have known various members of the Setliff family over the years beginning with Cathy in high school. I first met Carolyn and Lamar in Symphony Chorus many years ago. I was always so impressed with Lamar's support of everything his family did. I saw him at nearly all of our AR Chamber Singers concerts in support of Carolyn. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him from the many diverse areas of his life.
Jason Massie
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Dear Setliff Family,
I was saddened to hear about the loss of Mr. Setliff. As a friend of the family from the Lutheran School and Catholic High, Mr. Setliff was both a gentleman and a scholar and also served as a positive role model and substitute father for many of us boys. I remember his great devotion to the Hogs, the church and his family. He is surely in a better place. Godspeed to the rest of the Setliff family. You will all be reunited again beside the Lord and your dad someday. Regards, JASON MASSIE
Keith Straughn
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
My sincere condolences to Carolyn and the extended Setliff family. I first met Lamar years ago singing in the barbershop chorus. I was only able to sing for a few months but thoroughly enjoyed his friendship and leadership. Carolyn, I have enjoyed and admired you during our time together in ACS. Music has been such a strong influence in our lives and I know you will find much strength and comfort through your various musical interests in the future. May God richly bless you in the days to come.
Barbara & George Tribble
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Our deepest condolences to Carolyn and family. You and Lamar have made a major impact on our lives and we will miss him terribly.
Mary Frances Hodges
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Caroline and Family, all love and prayers are being sent your way by me and my children
James Warlick
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Dear Carolyn and Family: Twylia and I send our condolences to you and all of your family. I just recently rejoined the Diamond State Chorus after a few years away and because of his illness had only seen Lamar a couple of times recently. But I will always treasure the years spent with Lamar singing in the quartet "4 Wheel Drive" and all of the other chorus activities. We are blessed to have known him and he will be greatly missed.
John Jacobsen
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
I am sad to lose such a great friend. I have sung with Lamar for several years with the Diamond State Chorus and he was a great singer and leader in the Tenor section. I am thankful I have his voice on video and CD to remember him. We morn a great loss. God bless the family and friends.
Dan Cook
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
I've known Lamar for close to 20 years and he was a class act all the way. I have sung with him in the Diamond State Chorus for several years and have enjoyed his tenor voice on many occasions. He was the Tag Meister of our chorus and taught us many wonderful tags(the ending to a song). He was always a gentleman and I am proud to have been one of his many friends. We will miss him greatly. But I know that he will be "ringing those chords" for the heavenly hosts. Sing on Brother!
Dick and Janet Muse
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Our sincere condolences to your family in this time. Lamar was an extremely outstanding person and a joy to be with while singing barbershop in the diamond state chorus. He will be sorely missed.
Edwin Frazier
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Dear Carolyn and Family, so sorry for your loss, Lamar was a good friend and singing buddy in the chorus and especially our quartet. He will be missed. Looking forward to singing with him again in that Great Chorus in Heaven.
Jeff Nash
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
We will miss you in the tenor section, and for the way you taught us tags. You helped me more than I ever let you know. May you sing your way into heaven.
Jim & Ann Nowell
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Carolyn, Chris, Cathy;
Lamar was a man of honor, an honest man, a faithful friend, and a Christian brother. We were blessed by knowing him, and we already miss him. May God bless and comfort you. Love, Ann & Jim Nowell
Leslie Coop
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Dr. Setliff was one of my all-time favorite teachers. I have missed seeing him on campus this past year, and will never forget how much he has meant to me.
Nancy Griffin
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Dear Setliff Family. I am so very sorry for your great loss. I didn't know Lamar well but what I did know of him, he was a very gracious, intelligent and gentle man. My prayers and love are with you at this time.
Nancy